Thyroid Gland

FUNCTIONS / OBJECTIVE
The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland in the neck and consists of two lobes connected by an isthmus. It is found at the front of the neck, below the Adam’s apple.The thyroid gland secretes thyroid hormones, which primarily influence the metabolic rate and protein synthesis.The hormones also have many other effects including those on development.

The thyroid hormones T3 (Triiodothyronine) and T4 (Thyroxine) are synthesized from iodine and tyrosine. The thyroid also produces the hormone calcitonin, which plays a role in calcium homeostasis. The thyroid gland’s hormones, T3 and T4, regulate vital body functions including breathing, heart rate, body temperature, muscle strength, menstrual cycles, body weight, etc.

CONDITIONS OF THE THYROID
Hypothyroidism – When your thyroid is either underactive, nonfunctioning, or has been completely removed or partially removed, you are considered hypothyroid (low thyroid). Symptoms can include: depression, fatigue, sleepiness, slow heart rate (<70 pbm), intolerance to cold, decreased metabolic rate, etc. In most cases, hypothyroidism needs to be treated with either prescription or natural thyroid therapies.

Subclinical Hypothyroidism – Approximately 43-72 million Americans have some degree of subclinical hypothyroidism. These are people who display symptoms of hypothyroidism, but whose blood tests fall within the normal range. More testing should be done and monitored with your healthcare physician before any further therapies would be considered.

Hyperthyroidism: When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroxine (T4), despite normal levels of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). Symptoms can include: Restlessness, heart palpitations, increased basal metabolic rate, rapid heart rate, muscle weakness, etc. Natural thyroid glandulars should NOT be considered with Hyperthyroidism.